Our unique skating scene
Published on 12 February 2024
Inside a warehouse concealed in Morisset’s industrial estate lies Australia’s largest roller derby shop, run by a passionate family of skaters.
Hosting an impressive range of skates, protective gear and vibrant accessories, Roller Derby Heaven carries about 3500 unique products.
Store managers and partners Joshua Watt and Bri Maertin said they took over management from Bri’s parents in 2010, when they shifted their business from Sydney to Morisset.
“The move was a lifestyle change for the family, and the Hunter had more to offer in the roller derby space,” Ms Maertin said.
“It’s always been a family business and it always will be and that really means a lot to us.”
Originally setting up shop in Sydney in 1990, the family has grown up loving and living in skates.
And while their products are shipped across the globe, to places like Canada, the United States and New Zealand, a strong skating community is blossoming in Lake Macquarie.
“COVID really boosted the skating scene in Lake Macquarie and the community just grew,” Ms Maertin said.
“It went from not only kids skating but their parents jumping on the bandwagon too.”
Each Friday, the Speers Point Park promenade is transformed into a skating hotspot, with people from all ages and walks of life jumping on wheels and dancing to funky 80s music for the evening.
Vicki Lawler, who founded the 80s Skaties event, said the group provides a place of support and inclusion unlike any other.
“It’s a form of exercise but it also brings some of the nicest people together on a regular basis,” Ms Lawler said.
And it’s not just roller skating thriving in Lake Macquarie, skate boarders have access to a dozen skate parks and other skate-friendly pathways, while ice-skaters can be found at the Hunter Ice Skating Stadium at Warners Bay.
Each Friday, the Speers Point Park promenade is transformed into a skating hotspot, with people from all ages and walks of life jumping on wheels and dancing to funky 80s music for the evening.
Vicki Lawler, who founded the 80s Skaties event, said the group provides a place of support and inclusion unlike any other. “It’s a form of exercise but it also brings some of the nicest people together on a regular basis,” Ms Lawler said.
Another unique experience is on offer at Newcastle Junior Roller Derby– the only place in the Hunter teaches juniors the art of roller derby.
Zoe Hirschbichler, aged 11, started attending the Kahibah facility earlier this year.
“I love hanging out with my friends, meeting new people and learning a new skill that’s pretty unique,” she said.
And it’s not just roller skating thriving in Lake Macquarie, skate boarders have access to a dozen skate parks and other skate-friendly pathways, while ice-skaters can be found at the Hunter Ice Skating Stadium at Warners Bay.
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